Description
A decadent French-American gourmet grilled cheese sandwich featuring slow-caramelized onions, melted Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses, and toasted sourdough bread. This French Onion Grilled Cheese is rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweet onions, savory cheese, and fresh thyme – an indulgent twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Sandwich
- 8 slices of sourdough or French bread
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened butter for spreading
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 25 to 30 minutes until the onions become deep golden and caramelized.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the thyme leaves and balsamic vinegar into the caramelized onions. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to meld flavors, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine shredded Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses evenly.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out the bread slices. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or softened butter on one side of each slice. Place half of the bread slices mayo-side down on a skillet or griddle.
- Layer Fillings: On these bread slices, add a layer of the combined cheeses, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, and then more cheese on top.
- Top and Grill: Place the remaining bread slices on top, mayo-side up. Cook over medium heat until the bottom is golden brown and cheese starts to melt, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, ensuring the sandwich is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from skillet and serve warm for the best melty, rich flavor experience.
Notes
- Try using a mix of Gruyère and Swiss cheese if mozzarella is unavailable for a similar flavor and melt.
- For added flavor, incorporate a dash of garlic powder or a smear of Dijon mustard inside the sandwich before grilling.
- Use a heavy skillet or griddle to ensure even grilling and melting.
- Adjust the thickness of onion slices for varying texture preferences; thinner slices caramelize faster.
